In what has been interpreted as a death blow to a localization programme started by his predecessor, the current Managing Director of Kgalagadi Breweries Limited (KBL) has sacked one of the two citizen directors in the group’s executive management.
Mokgadi Nteta, the group’s Human Resources Director, was dragged before the KBL disciplinary hearing after she questioned a decision to reduce some of her benefits.
These included car allowance and school fees allowances for the children.
The perks were cut by Managing Director Lehlohonolo Matshela who succeeded Lon Mtongana.
Mtongana was viewed by Botswana citizens as the KBL MD to have seriously considered their welfare.
He was, however, recalled by SABMiller before he could complete an ambitious localization and citizen economic empowerment programme.
Mtogana’s programme had allegedly rattled not only SABMiller but also their local henchmen who sit on the Board of Kgalagadi Breweries.
To reverse Mtongana achievements, SABMiller, who hold the KBL management contract, dispatched a new MD, who immediately embarked on cost cutting measures.
The KBL Public Affairs Director, Percy Raditladi, confirmed to Sunday Standard that Ms Nteta appeared before a disciplinary hearing, but said he would not elaborate as it may compromise the proceedings.
“It’s an internal matter that we don’t want to discuss with the media. We are confident the hearing was within the Botswana labour laws,” said Raditladi.
He, however, would not say what could have prompted the disciplinary hearing against Nteta.
“I don’t want to go any further,” said Raditladi.
The Sunday Standard, however, can confirm that since the arrival of Matshela about ten citizen senior managers have left KBL in protest against his management style.
Raditladi remains the only citizen director at operational level.
